Settling in as an International Student

Packing your life in two suitcases and buying a one-way ticket to Ireland, and that too for my first international flight ever, was nerve-racking!! Coming all the way from Asia to a completely new continent, I knew the first few weeks would be filled with all kinds of excitement, fear, and a touch of homesickness. I was stepping into a new phase of my life, far away from the familiar sounds, tastes, and faces of home. On my flight, the thought of starting over, establishing a new routine, making new friends, and adjusting to a completely new culture crossed my mind. This shift was more than just about moving countries; it was about moving lifestyles. From my structured 9-to-5 corporate life to being a full-time student again, everything felt new.

But all that anxiety began to fade the moment I arrived and met my housemates. They greeted me with the warmest smiles and open hearts, instantly calming my nerves. Our house turned out to be a perfect blend of Irish, Brazilian, Indian, and French cultures. That diversity made it feel extra special. Coming from Asia, my European housemates helped me understand the European way of life.

Those first few weeks that I feared would be lonely were instead filled with laughter and companionship. We cooked together, played games, shared stories about our home countries, and spent long evenings chatting over tea. I was amazed at how quickly we built a bond; it felt like we'd known each other for years. My housemates' friendliness really helped me settle in and reminded me that kindness and connection can transcend borders.

I remember dreading that my first Diwali away from home would feel empty, but to my surprise, my housemates joined me in celebrating it. They helped me light candles, listened to Bollywood music, and even enjoyed Indian sweets with enthusiasm. That night, my FOMO faded a little. A few days later, I celebrated my first Halloween, carving pumpkins, dressing up, going out, and experiencing something completely new. Experiencing both festivals back-to-back, one deeply rooted in my culture and the other completely new, made me appreciate the beauty of cultural exchange even more.

Slowly, Galway began to weave its charm around me. The friendly people who greet you with a smile, the small talks that make you feel seen, and the live music echoing through almost every street. Everything added to the warmth of the city. Even the unpredictable weather began to feel like part of its personality. It felt surreal to see my European dream, one I had cherished since childhood, finally come to life before my eyes.

Looking back, I realise that settling in is more than just adjusting to a new environment; it's about the people and experiences that make it feel like home. The last few months have been nothing short of spectacular, full of laughter, generosity, and new experiences. I'm thankful for every memory I've made thus far and excited for all the new ones to come. Galway no longer feels like a place I just moved to; it feels like a place I was always meant to be in…

Words and images thanks to Pratishtha, MSc in International Accounting and Analytics